India and Germany recently took a major step to deepen their digital partnership by signing a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on telecommunications cooperation in New Delhi.
According to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Friday, the pact is expected to boost collaboration in telecom and emerging digital technologies, supporting inclusive and sustainable digital growth in both countries.
The JDI was signed between India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation.
On the Indian side, it was signed by Telecom Secretary Amit Agrawal, while German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann signed on behalf of the Government of Germany during the official visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz from January 12–13, 2026, the DoT stated.
The telecom ministry further clarified that the declaration creates a framework for regular consultations, high-level annual meetings and dedicated working groups involving government, industry, academia and research bodies.
Both sides would work together on policy and regulatory frameworks, telecom and ICT manufacturing, and easing doing business in the sector, along with collaboration in emerging and future technologies.
Earlier this week, the JDI was described as one of the key outcomes of recent engagements between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Merz. It was also tied into the broader India–Germany cooperation under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership and the Digital Dialogue work plan.